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Fluid Circular Design Featuring Acrylic and Carbon Fiber in a Sustainable Observation Structure

Author:
Yueshen Mei
Fluid Circular Design Featuring Acrylic and Carbon Fiber in a Sustainable Observation Structure

Project in-detail

A circular observation tower crafted from acrylic and carbon fiber gracefully elevates the visitor experience within a vibrant wetland, inviting close engagement with the natural habitat below.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a spiraling staircase that allows for fluid movement between observation levels.
02
A modular assembly method enables rapid installation while maintaining structural integrity in a wetland environment.
03
The elevated structure allows water to flow freely underneath, minimizing ecological disruption.
04
Utilizes transparent acrylic materials to enhance natural light and provide uninterrupted views of the landscape.
05
The circular design promotes 360-degree visibility, encouraging diverse perspectives of the surrounding wetland.
The project represents a carefully crafted observation tower and bridge designed to enhance the visitor experience within a picturesque wetland environment known as the Pape Bird Observation Tower and Bridge. This architectural endeavor embodies a commitment to transparency, lightness, and a strong connection with nature, providing users with a meaningful engagement with their surroundings. The structure serves not only as a functional space for observation and contemplation but also as an integral part of the local ecosystem, promoting awareness of environmental conservation.

Functionally, the observation tower allows visitors to immerse themselves in the unique landscapes of the wetland while offering varying perspectives from its circular design. This approach encourages exploration, as users can ascend through a spiraling staircase that connects multiple observation platforms. The layering of these platforms facilitates a fluid experience, allowing visitors to choose their height while providing continuous access to unobstructed views. This thoughtful design motivates individuals to engage with the environment actively, creating a sense of exploration and discovery integrated within the architecture itself.

Several key components elevate the project beyond traditional observational structures. The circular form of the tower is vital to its identity, creating a sense of openness, while also ensuring that it blends seamlessly into its natural setting. The use of transparent materials, particularly acrylic glass, supports the structure’s light aesthetic and invites natural light into the interior spaces. This careful selection of materials not only strengthens the architectural integrity but also enhances the visual connection with the surrounding landscape, allowing the environment to play a crucial role in the experience.

A notable aspect of the project is its environmentally conscious approach. The elevated design ensures minimal disruption to the local ecosystem by allowing water to flow freely underneath the structure. This feature emphasizes the project's commitment to ecological balance while actively promoting awareness of the wetlands and the species that inhabit them. Furthermore, the innovative assembly techniques employed in the construction reduce the footprint of installation, echoing the project’s sustainable ethos.

Unique design approaches are evident in the overall structural system utilized for the tower. The modular assembly technique allows for efficient installation while ensuring structural stability. Each component interlocks effectively to create a coherent whole, resembling systems found in modular constructions. This methodology not only streamlines the construction process but also highlights the adaptability of the design, allowing it to suit the dynamic conditions of the wetland habitat without overwhelming it visually.

The project successfully merges aesthetics and function, creating a space that invites contemplation and interaction. The transparent materials and lightweight construction foster an experience of being surrounded by nature rather than enclosed within a built environment. Visitors are encouraged to explore the observation points, each offering a unique vantage of the wetlands, fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty of the ecosystem.

For those interested in further understanding the project, it is worthwhile to explore the comprehensive architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that underpin this thoughtful architectural endeavor. Delving into these details will provide a richer perspective on how the project exemplifies innovation in both design and environmental consciousness. The Pape Bird Observation Tower and Bridge stands as a testament to modern architectural practices that prioritize ecological harmony and community engagement, inviting visitors to engage meaningfully with their environment.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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